Typically, I've had my fill of zombie movies. Although classics like 28 Days Later and the early seasons of The Walking Dead were gripping, this category seems largely depleted nowadays. Even the highly anticipated 28 Years Later has been gathering dust on my to-watch queue for months. However, Netflix's latest Indonesian horror film, The Elixir, managed to subvert my expectations and proved quite entertaining.
Excellent Pacing and Personal Growth
One of the film's greatest assets is its superb pacing. It kicks off using a memorable initial scene where a peaceful family party is violently interrupted when a vehicle crashes right into the seating section. Out of the van, a very undead-looking individual stumbles out and begins assaulting the partygoers. This intense moment is immediately followed by a flashback, allowing us to observe the family before the disaster occurred.
Unlike numerous undead movies, The Elixir truly gives the audience sufficient time to become acquainted with its main personalities before the carnage ensues. There's Nes, a married mother whose former close friend, Karina, has become wed to her dad—a clearly uncomfortable situation. Naturally, this has understandably led to a rift between Nes and Karina. Then there's her sibling, Bang, described as good-natured yet a bit inept socially, and who enjoys playing video games with his nephew, Raihan. Her spouse, Rudi, appears to have lately been unfaithful to Nes. This household head is Nes' father, the owner of a popular natural medicine company called Wani Waras, and he appears to care about only two things: his business and his wife to Nes' ex-best friend. Needless to say, this gathering proves incredibly tense.
Engaged in the Conflict
I became so engrossed with this household's issues along with their personal conflicts that I nearly forgot this was a scary movie—which might seem like a drawback, but ultimately worked well. The Elixir dedicates a significant portion of its runtime to showing viewers the identity of every relative is, plus the ways they add to the overall dysfunction. This focus on clashing personalities allowed me to connect to the personalities enough to be concerned for their outcome—an uncommon feat for this style which frequently introduces characters just to kill them off soon after. The Elixir avoids portraying its cast as two-dimensional, disposable victims for an army of zombies to devour, so it's a real surprise once events finally deteriorate.
Reminiscent of Parasite
The opening sequences of the party and various family interactions actually evoke the movie Parasite, a story which disguises itself as a K-Drama with somewhat morbid humor before making an abrupt turn toward "holy shit" ground. These introductory scenes aren't centered as much on comedy as Parasite, yet The Elixir nonetheless gives enough time to immerse in the setting before it gets upended.
Original Zombification Origin
This movie additionally presents a fairly intriguing reason regarding the origin of the contagious zombification. Instead of an accidental lab leak or some sort of bioweapon, the cause of this infectious condition originates in a recent batch from Wani Waras herbal remedies developed by Nes' father. Although some background is provided something regarding how it started, it would have been better if the movie devoted a little more time explaining how Wani Waras transitioned from a trusted supplier of holistic medicine to creating a lethal potion which seems to contain an extremely infectious pathogen. Regardless of the lack of background, the effect this condition has on people is utterly repulsive, and I appreciate. The Elixir's zombies prove quick, freaky-looking, and, maybe most disturbingly, constantly grinning. This is a bold choice, yet it succeeds. The Elixir's physical effects and computer graphics are also very realistic, and they're practically certain to trigger a fear of holes.
Resourceful Characters
More impressive than the disgusting moments is the cast themselves. Certainly, we see a few examples of dubious decision-making (as in typical undead film), but generally, Nes and her family show themselves inventive and quick-thinking. They also aren't afraid to strike a zombie in the face, stab it with a pitchfork, or hit it over the head with the nearest blunt instrument they find rather than freezing like a deer in headlights while danger nears.
Believable Familial Discord
The Elixir doesn't abandon its focus on family conflict once individuals start turning to the undead, this proved a pleasantly authentic subversion from the "We don't get along|"We have issues, but you almost died I immediately forgive you for all your mistakes!" cliché frequently used in end-of-world movies. It's clear, Nes cares for her family and values her spouse, Rudi, yet it's equally apparent she's still clinging to resentment over his betrayal in their relationship. When the family becomes split up, they agree via telephone to meet up at a close spot. But when Bang admits he is unaware the way to the location, Nes expresses a massive level of irritation toward Bang that's clearly been building over time. Nes is not perfect, and her relatives—with all their imperfections—seem realistic and relatable since the movie avoids attempting to push the idea that a near-death experience instantly cures family tensions. This causes those instances when these characters do show appreciation for each other seem much more genuine.
Stereotypical Ending
In spite of The Elixir's strong efforts to break new ground, the conclusion must be said to be somewhat formulaic. The Elixir isn't really presenting some profound insight regarding relatives or society, either. Instead, it's primarily serving up frights. But they're effective frights, and because the movie gives each character enough room to develop and doesn't punish them for having flaws, the outcome proves an engaging and enjoyable
